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CHARLESTON, SC (1 December 2009) – Getting a jump on the holiday season, the Organizers of 2010 Charleston Race Week are pleased to announce that on-line registration for this marquee event is now open for all competitors, with the Notice of Race available online today. "We know that sailors are anxious to plan their winter and spring schedule as soon as they can," said Event Director Randy Draftz. "And with an expected 200 boats in town for 2010 Charleston Race Week on two busy inshore courses and two action-packed offshore circles, the more time we have to prepare, the better!" Competitors can register at http://www.charlestonraceweek.com.

The South Carolina Maritime Foundation and Charleston Ocean Racing Association select the dates for Charleston Race Week to maximize the benefit of Charleston Harbor's famous tidal current. Properly timed dates dates provide offshore competitors with a 3-4 knot tidal "moving sidewalk" to and from the two ocean courses, making their morning and afternoon 'commute' an easy ride past historic Fort Sumter. The optimal tide for 2010's running of the event are April 8-11, adding the additional benefit of spreading the event out from later spring regattas further North.

Organizers are offering big bonuses to early registrants, including free rafting moorage for the entire event to the first 35 boats to sign up. "Free moorage has proven immensely popular over the past couple of years, and is one more thing that we do to make this event easier for out-of-town racers to participate in," said Logistics Director Danny Havens.

Host venue Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is also offering a strong incentive for teams to register before the end of the year. "The Host Resort has been a great supporter of Charleston Race Week for since 2006 ," said Sponsorship Director Jeanne Jamme. "They are generously offering a 10% discount on the CRW group rate to anyone who registers and books their stay at the Resort prior to January 1, 2010." With the luxurious resort's location just at the edge of the award-winning marina's docks, this offer will be hard to beat.

GREAT RACING, GREAT VALUE, AND GREAT TIMES PROVE IRRESISTIBLE

The general health of major sailing regattas has weakened with the economy, though racers are "voting with their wallets" as they increasingly flock to events that provide great racing and a great value - like Charleston Race Week. From its roots as a regional regatta with less than a hundred competing boats just five years ago, Charleston Race Week has grown every year, with 2009 providing the biggest field of entries ever. "We're immensely proud that the sportboats have embraced Charleston and made the commitment to show up with such large fleets," said Draftz. And they have; of the 174 boats racing during 2009 CRW, nearly a hundred were the ultra-light, ultra-fast, easily handled sportboats that make up the only growing sector of sailboat racing. "It's the ideal place to race in April," said Northern California-based Melges 24 skipper Kristen Lane. "San Francisco-like racing, but in t-shirts and maybe a spray top - Charleston is just awesome!"

Melges Performance Sailboats CEO Harry Melges III agrees. "Large numbers of racing enthusiasts have moved from bigger boats to smaller, quicker ones that provide great bang for the buck," Melges said. "And Charleston delivers exactly that - excellent racing, solid management, and one of our favorite venues. And with 2010 CRW on the official calendars for the Melges 20, 24, and 32, Melges Sailboats and Charleston Harbor are a match made in heaven."

Charleston is undeniably a great place to sail in the spring, with ultra-reliable sea breezes punctuated by the passage of occasionally strong frontal systems. "The wind is great, we are speeding around all day in the flat waters and loving it," said first-time Charleston competitor and French pro sailor Alain Fedensieu just after the 2009 event.

Local racer and sailing instructor Ned Goss agrees emphatically. "The breeze is as reliable as anywhere in the U.S., but equally important to Race Week's great reputation is the high quality of the offshore handicap fleets and general race management," said Goss. "We have some of the closest ratings bands of any major regatta, with numerous fleets of a dozen or more PHRF boats battling for handicap victory as well as boat-for-boat honors during the entire event."

The quality of race management is also credited with the incredible growth among the "Roaring Twenties," - the 20' sportboats. From zero entries in 2007 to nearly 50 in 2009, this is the hottest sector in the country and includes the Viper 640, Melges 20, and Laser SB3, amongst others. Arizona-based Viper racer Stacey Loula was amazed that so many boats could race inside the harbor without incident. "With a smart starting sequence and great work in getting races off, the racing was simply spectacular," Loula said. "And having similar types of boats around you at all times - even from other classes - added more excitement to the racing than I've experienced at other regattas."

ABOUT CHARLESTON RACE WEEK

Charleston Race Week is an event of the South Carolina Maritime Foundation and the Charleston Ocean Racing Association (CORA). Profits from the event support educational programs aboard the Spirit of South Carolina, a classic tall ship serving South Carolina's youth. Charleston Race Week is sponsored by Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, the Town of Mt. Pleasant, and Azalea Moving & Storage. Check out www.charlestonraceweek.com for more information, including on-line entry, Notice of Race, shoreside events schedules, and housing and logistical information. Click on www.scmaritime.org to find out more about the South Carolina Maritime Foundation's programs.

CHARLESTON, SC (1 December 2009) – Getting a jump on the holiday season, the Organizers of 2010 Charleston Race Week are pleased to announce that on-line registration for this marquis event is now open for all competitors, with the Notice of Race available online today. "We know that sailors are anxious to plan their winter and spring schedule as soon as they can," said Event Director Randy Draftz. "And with an expected 200 boats in town for 2010 Charleston Race Week on two busy inshore courses and two action-packed offshore circles, the more time we have to prepare, the better!" Competitors can register at http://www.charlestonraceweek.com.

The South Carolina Maritime Foundation and Charleston Ocean Racing Association select the dates for Charleston Race Week to maximize the benefit of Charleston Harbor's famous tidal current. Properly timed dates dates provide offshore competitors with a 3-4 knot tidal "moving sidewalk" to and from the two ocean courses, making their morning and afternoon 'commute' an easy ride past historic Fort Sumter. The optimal tide for 2010's running of the event are April 8-11, adding the additional benefit of spreading the event out from later spring regattas further North.

Organizers are offering big bonuses to early registrants, including free rafting moorage for the entire event to the first 35 boats to sign up. "Free moorage has proven immensely popular over the past couple of years, and is one more thing that we do to make this event easier for out-of-town racers to participate in," said Logistics Director Danny Havens.

Host venue Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is also offering a strong incentive for teams to register before the end of the year. "The Host Resort has been a great supporter of Charleston Race Week for since 2006 ," said Sponsorship Director Jeanne Jamme. "They are generously offering a 10% discount on the CRW group rate to anyone who registers and books their stay at the Resort prior to January 1, 2010." With the luxurious resort's location just at the edge of the award-winning marina's docks, this offer will be hard to beat.

GREAT RACING, GREAT VALUE, AND GREAT TIMES PROVE IRRESISTIBLE

The general health of major sailing regattas has weakened with the economy, though racers are "voting with their wallets" as they increasingly flock to events that provide great racing and a great value - like Charleston Race Week. From its roots as a regional regatta with less than a hundred competing boats just five years ago, Charleston Race Week has grown every year, with 2009 providing the biggest field of entries ever. "We're immensely proud that the sportboats have embraced Charleston and made the commitment to show up with such large fleets," said Draftz. And they have; of the 174 boats racing during 2009 CRW, nearly a hundred were the ultra-light, ultra-fast, easily handled sportboats that make up the only growing sector of sailboat racing. "It's the ideal place to race in April," said Northern California-based Melges 24 skipper Kristen Lane. "San Francisco-like racing, but in t-shirts and maybe a spray top - Charleston is just awesome!"

Melges Performance Sailboats CEO Harry Melges III agrees. "Large numbers of racing enthusiasts have moved from bigger boats to smaller, quicker ones that provide great bang for the buck," Melges said. "And Charleston delivers exactly that - excellent racing, solid management, and one of our favorite venues. And with 2010 CRW on the official calendars for the Melges 20, 24, and 32, Melges Sailboats and Charleston Harbor are a match made in heaven."

Charleston is undeniably a great place to sail in the spring, with ultra-reliable sea breezes punctuated by the passage of occasionally strong frontal systems. "The wind is great, we are speeding around all day in the flat waters and loving it," said first-time Charleston competitor and French pro sailor Alain Fedensieu just after the 2009 event.

Local racer and sailing instructor Ned Goss agrees emphatically. "The breeze is as reliable as anywhere in the U.S., but equally important to Race Week's great reputation is the high quality of the offshore handicap fleets and general race management," said Goss. "We have some of the closest ratings bands of any major regatta, with numerous fleets of a dozen or more PHRF boats battling for handicap victory as well as boat-for-boat honors during the entire event."

The quality of race management is also credited with the incredible growth among the "Roaring Twenties," - the 20' sportboats. From zero entries in 2007 to nearly 50 in 2009, this is the hottest sector in the country and includes the Viper 640, Melges 20, and Laser SB3, amongst others. Arizona-based Viper racer Stacey Loula was amazed that so many boats could race inside the harbor without incident. "With a smart starting sequence and great work in getting races off, the racing was simply spectacular," Loula said. "And having similar types of boats around you at all times - even from other classes - added more excitement to the racing than I've experienced at other regattas."

ABOUT CHARLESTON RACE WEEK

Charleston Race Week is an event of the South Carolina Maritime Foundation and the Charleston Ocean Racing Association (CORA). Profits from the event support educational programs aboard the Spirit of South Carolina, a classic tall ship serving South Carolina's youth. Charleston Race Week is sponsored by Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, the Town of Mt. Pleasant, and Azalea Moving & Storage. Check out www.charlestonraceweek.com for more information, including on-line entry, Notice of Race, shoreside events schedules, and housing and logistical information. Click on www.scmaritime.org to find out more about the South Carolina Maritime Foundation's programs.

fuck off noob.......... sho9w me some tits.............

and find me a ride for race week so I can come down to S. Carolina and see that southern hospitality in person (I will come down if I can get a ride)....

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It's good that there's so much time in between Annap RW and CRW, they're hoping that the 105s from up north will show in force. I think there was a 1D fleet a few years ago, the last couple have been only a weekend away from annapolis so the 105s raced PHRF.

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It's good that there's so much time in between Annap RW and CRW, they're hoping that the 105s from up north will show in force. I think there was a 1D fleet a few years ago, the last couple have been only a weekend away from annapolis so the 105s raced PHRF.

The only thing I didn't like about CRW was that the big boats raced outside and got back so late that the party already started. Is that still the same?

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It's good that there's so much time in between Annap RW and CRW, they're hoping that the 105s from up north will show in force. I think there was a 1D fleet a few years ago, the last couple have been only a weekend away from annapolis so the 105s raced PHRF.

The only thing I didn't like about CRW was that the big boats raced outside and got back well after the party started. Is that still the same?

They still race outside, but last year the RC made sure everyone was in together. The 109 said their trip out took 55 minutes (3 knots of favorable current) and their trip in, under kite, with the current was quicker. Outside start is 30 mins or an hour earlier I think - that's the only part that would bug me given the great partying downtown until the wee hours. Solution: Stay on the boat or in the marina hotel...

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It's good that there's so much time in between Annap RW and CRW, they're hoping that the 105s from up north will show in force. I think there was a 1D fleet a few years ago, the last couple have been only a weekend away from annapolis so the 105s raced PHRF.

The only thing I didn't like about CRW was that the big boats raced outside and got back well after the party started. Is that still the same?

They still race outside, but last year the RC made sure everyone was in together. The 109 said their trip out took 55 minutes (3 knots of favorable current) and their trip in, under kite, with the current was quicker. Outside start is 30 mins or an hour earlier I think - that's the only part that would bug me given the great partying downtown until the wee hours. Solution: Stay on the boat or in the marina hotel...

Most likely the marina hotel for us, and as long as the RC's get everyone in together, it should be fine.

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I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.

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I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.

As long as you can see between the wheel and the dash, you are good.

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I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.

As long as you can see between the wheel and the dash, you are good.

We had a little issue with local police the last time I was there.

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I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.

As long as you can see between the wheel and the dash, you are good.

We had a little issue with local police the last time I was there.

I've had several. One i didn't even know about till I got pulled here at home and the officer informed me of my SC warrant.

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CHARLESTON, SC (January 28, 2010) - As the days get longer and temperatures climb, the number of entries for 2010 Charleston Race Week (CRW) climbs with them. Already almost 100 boats are signed up, well ahead of last year's pace that produced a record fleet of over 170 competing teams.

"We love to see old names pop up on the entry list, so many of the racers become like family to our staff and volunteers over the years," said Race Director Randy Draftz. "But as we've grown over the past three years, we've been immensely gratified to meet so many fun, new competitors and help them get to know how great our waters are."

Today's times require boat owners to squeeze as much fun out of every racing dollar they spend, and Charleston Race Week's staff works hard to help, including a substantial early registration discount that expires this Sunday, January 31. "We say 'If you know you're coming, why pay more?'" said manager of logistics, Danny Havens. Racers can take advantage of early registration and save $50 by going to the official registration page here.

The event has maintained entry fees at 2007 levels for three years now, and provides block discounts for hotels as well as free launch and haul locations via ramp or crane for smaller, trailerable boats. The event continues to offer free limited storage for trailerable boats under 30 feet from January 1st until Charleston Race Week begins on April 8th. "The storage at Azalea is secure and saves me a couple hundred dollars every year," said Michigan Melges 24 owner Paul Hulsey. "That savings more than pays for the party at the resort; which nobody should miss." A storage contract must be signed to take advantage of the free offer. Details can be found here.

New in 2010 is a free storage solution for the larger Melges 32 sportboats at Pierside Boatworks' secure yard. Pierside will also launch and haul all boats for the CRW rate, and Melges 32 teams wishing to take advantage of free storage should contact them directly at (843) 554-7775.

Book a hotel room at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina where all the festivities will be taking place and ensure a place to call home each night after the races and beach parties. Book now and use the CRW code, SCMARACE.

Handicap and One-Design Racing Equally Strong for 2010

Charleston Race Week is widely acknowledged to have some of the closest handicap racing of any major regatta. "We have lots of closely matched bands of boats every year, and our PHRF handicap committee ensures that handicaps and splits make sense for the best possible racing experience," Draftz said. IRC handicap racers are welcome, and for the first time, a mixed sportboat class is an option. "There are some great designs floating around that are perfect for our offshore circles," Havens said. "Solid sea breeze and offshore swell mean fast rides for fast rides, and we're excited to see boats like the Viper 830, Melges 32, Flying Tiger, and Henderson 30 get together for some great racing against similar boats."

Already the one-design fleets are gearing up for battle, with big fleets guaranteed amongst returning classes like the J/24, J/80 and Melges 24, while relative newcomers like the Viper 640 and Melges 20 expect extremely strong turnout. "I'm looking forward to my fourth CRW, absolutely my favorite regatta on the East Coast," said Viper owner David Furna. "I tell everyone I race with that Charleston is one of the 'must do' regattas, and I can't wait!"

A great story is the return of the Tripp 26 Class to Charleston, with five of these quick and well-regarded raceboats entered to date, from as far as Ontario, Canada. "The last place the Tripp 26 had a one-design start was probably here back in 2006," said Tom Freeman, the Canadian owner of 'Slapshot.' "This is my fifth or sixth Charleston Race Week, and one of the best parts of the event is sailing outside the harbor in some waves and nice breeze." But the real treat to Tom is the power reach back to the dock after racing. "With the afternoon sea breeze pumping and the incoming tide ripping, we've seen 12 knots over the ground as we eat sandwiches and drink beer on the way to the party. Some folks complain about the distance to the offshore courses, but we think it's a bonus!" With a handful of these fun boats scattered around the Southeast, Freeman hopes to see at least three more teams register in the next month.

Win a Three-Day Sail aboard a Classic Schooner

All net proceeds earned from Charleston Race Week support the nonprofit South Carolina Maritime Foundation, which owns and operates the 'Spirit of South Carolina' tall ship. The Foundation offers effective, unique educational opportunities for the students aboard the 'Spirit.' The Foundation is kicking off 2010 by hosting a sponsorship drive for its summer scholarship fund with a phenomenal, once-in-a-lifetime prize: a three-day, two-night sail aboard the 'Spirit' for the winner and 17 of their closest friends. Room and board aboard the 140-foot traditional gaff-rigged schooner are included, but transportation is the responsibility of the winner, and the cruise will take place in either Boston in August, Rhode Island in September or Charleston in fall of 2010, at the winner's selection.

Each $25 ticket supports the Spirit Ocean Adventure Scholarship fund, and the winner will be drawn and announced on the final day of Charleston Race Week on April 11, 2010. Corporate entries are welcome! Entry details are here and tickets can be purchased online here. You do not need to be present to win.

About Charleston Race Week

Charleston Race Week is an event of the South Carolina Maritime Foundation and the Charleston Ocean Racing Association (CORA). Charleston Race Week is sponsored by Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, the Town of Mt. Pleasant, Charleston Boatworks and Azalea Moving & Storage. Visit www.CharlestonRaceWeek.com for more information, including online entry, Notice of Race, shoreside events schedules and housing and logistical information. Visit www.SCMaritime.org to learn more about the South Carolina Maritime Foundation's programs.

US-IRC Executive Director Luiz Kahl believes that Charleston is the perfect place for the international rule to grow. "IRC's growth has always been driven by boat owner interest, and we're glad to see Charleston Race Week competitors embrace it, further building the event's reputation as one of the top multi-class regattas in North America," said Kahl. IRC has seen solid growth in the Northeast, Great Lakes, and Caribbean, while a number of Florida events include IRC classes, and Charleston "provides a natural transition" for these widespread areas, according to Kahl. "With such a great sailing town developing an IRC fleet, we hope the word will spread throughout the area about this simple and respected international rule that works equally well for Maxis and small cruiser/racers," said Kahl. As of today, Eight boats between 35 and 52 feet are registered to race IRC including the overall winner of 2009 Charleston Race Week, the winner of the Fort Lauderdale to Key West Race, and the winner of Key West Race Week's PHRF division.

A mixed 'Sportboat' class is also likely, with boats like the Flying Tiger 10-Meter and Viper 830 registered to race as of today. These lightweight flyers are the big brothers to small, light, and ultra-fast one-design classes that make up more than half the Charleston Race Week fleet, and a separate class allows them to race against boats with similar sailing characteristics rather than the heavier, larger boats that they would ordinarily race. As of today, 45 boats are registered to race in the various PHRF divisions. Current event entries are here.

The South's Biggest Regatta!

With most major winter/spring regattas suffering yet another hard year, major decreases across the board, Charleston continues to gain steam as it works towards another record year. With 149 confirmed entries, Charleston Race Week can claim the title of "biggest multiclass regatta in the South" to go along with its longtime moniker of "friendliest regatta in the world." Vincitore tactician Rodney Keenan has some idea why. "When we looked at which regattas to do during the winter, we figured out that we could sail Charleston Race Week for the cost of just shipping the boat to the Caribbean," Keenan said. "That's hard to beat, and with our friends telling us how great the racing, the parties, and the nightlife are, it was an easy decision."

With two Melges 32s entered and a number of owners sitting on the fence as they prepare for their big event in Miami this week, 2010 may see the first-ever Charleston start for this Class, perhaps the hottest big-boat racing in the world right now. Most Class events see 20 or more of these ultra high octane rockets racing against each other, and over 30 are expected at their World Championship in San Francisco this summer. "We sure hope to round out our sportboat showing in Charleston with a Melges 32 Class presence," said Melges Performance Sailboats CEO Harry Melges, Jr. "Charleston has been a great place to race Melges 24s for years, and the new Audi Melges 20 had its first-ever class start in Charleston just last year. And we can't forget the strong fleet of MC scows, E-Scows and Melges 17s...Melges Performance Sailboats love this city and the city loves them!"

Two Melges 32s are already registered for 2010 Charleston Race Week, and organizers have provided free storage for Melges 32s and other trailerable boats with some limitations - more info is available here.

Entertainment Lineup Sizzling Hot

With the help of Other Brother Entertainment, Charleston Race Week organizers have planned the best lineup of entertainment ever seen at Charleston Race Week. Thursday night's opening bash-on-the-beach features funk, reggae and ska band The Plainfield Project, while Friday's revelry will feature rock and dance music from party band Two 3 Ways for the entire crowd to 'get their party on.' Saturday brings long time Charleston Race Week solo performer Calvin Taylor with his mix of classic and modern covers, and of course all of the festivities benefit from the overwhelming favorite drink of sailors worldwide - Gosling's Rum Dark n' Stormies.

Win A Three-Day Sail Aboard A Classic Schooner - For 18!

All proceeds for Charleston Race Week go to the nonprofit South Carolina Maritime Foundation, an organization that educates thousands of at-risk youth aboard the beautiful and classic Spirit of South Carolina pilot schooner. The Foundation is kicking off 2010 by hosting a sponsorship drive for its summer scholarship fund with a phenomenal, once-in-a-lifetime prize: a three-day, two-night sail aboard the Spirit for the winner and 17 of their closest friends. Room and board on the 140-foot traditional gaff-rigged schooner are included, but transportation is the responsibility of the winner, and the cruise will take place in either coastal Carolina or New England at the winner's election.

Each 25$ ticket supports the Spirit Ocean Adventure Scholarship Fund, a summer program aboard the Spirit of South Carolina for 15- to 18-year-old participants. The money raised will cover the cost for approximately eight students, giving equal access for all students to participate. The winners will be announced on the final day of Charleston Race Week on April 11, 2010. With the purchase of two or more tickets you'll receive a free South Carolina Maritime Foundation calendar while supplies last. Corporate entries are welcome! Entry details are here and tickets can be purchased online here.

Charleston Race Week is an annual premier regatta for inshore and offshore racing sailboats 20' - 70' in length. The 15th edition of this event, the fastest growing regatta on the east coast, will be held April 8 - 11, 2010, headquartered at the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Visit www.CharlestonRaceWeek.com for more information.

The South Carolina Maritime Foundation owns and operates the Spirit of South Carolina tall ship. The Foundation's mission is to offer effective, unique educational opportunities for students, focusing on the history, math, science and literature of our water resources and encouraging personal responsibility, contribution to the community and stewardship of the environment. Since its first season of programming in 2007, over 5,000 students have been served. With the support of local partnerships, the South Carolina Maritime Foundation is able to generate funds to keep these exceptional programs in place.

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<!--quoteo(post=2613527:date=Dec 11 2009, 03:32 PM:name=doghouse)--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (doghouse @ Dec 11 2009, 03:32 PM) <a href="index.php?act=findpost&pid=2613527"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div><div class='quotemain'><!--quotec--><!--quoteo(post=2613511:date=Dec 11 2009, 03:24 PM:name=MR.CLEAN)--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (MR.CLEAN @ Dec 11 2009, 03:24 PM) <a href="index.php?act=findpost&pid=2613511"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div><div class='quotemain'><!--quotec-->I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and <b>make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.</b><!--QuoteEnd--></div><!--QuoteEEnd-->

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Yeah - a FT10, an Azzura and 3 Thompson designs - Let's get some more sporties! I hope this is a trend that will be going further. Kinda looks like CRW is becoming the biggest sportboat regatta in the US. Awesome!

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I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.

Clean, the regatta just got a lot more fun. The Hoodlum crew has secured housing in the Isle of Palms and we are bringing the #1 boat Mom to shag our drunken asses around.

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I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.

Clean, the regatta just got a lot more fun. The Hoodlum crew has secured housing in the Isle of Palms and we are bringing the #1 boat Mom to shag our drunken asses around.

If the shagging is still on, please put me down for at least a half hour's worth. Glad to hear you'll be down the road. I of P = 8 minutes from casa Clean. Noice.

I expect at least another 6 M24s to show up, possibly as many as ten. 35 boats + on the line!

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I think the hotel has done a 199 deal with CRW, not sure but I do love the place. Can't beat water taxi to downtown and stumble to your room and boat. But the cheapest deal is to get together a couple or three crews and rent a 6-8 BR place on the beach at Sullivan's Island. Prices are very reasonable and it's hard to beat the waves crashing you to sleep, but you gotta rent a car and make sure someone's sober enough to get over the bridge.

Clean, the regatta just got a lot more fun. The Hoodlum crew has secured housing in the Isle of Palms and we are bringing the #1 boat Mom to shag our drunken asses around.

If the shagging is still on, please put me down for at least a half hour's worth. Glad to hear you'll be down the road. I of P = 8 minutes from casa Clean. Noice.

I expect at least another 6 M24s to show up, possibly as many as ten. 35 boats + on the line!

I expaect 73 boats! yahoooooo!

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BTW, Charleston is I think one boat away from setting an all-time entry record for the second straight year, and the fourth time in five years. There is obviously a winning formula in Chucktown, and we congratulate them. 176 is the magic number, some 50 more than Key West and 60 or 70 more than the St. Pete NOOD. Glad to see my home town is doing it right.

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BTW, Charleston is I think one boat away from setting an all-time entry record for the second straight year, and the fourth time in five years. There is obviously a winning formula in Chucktown, and we congratulate them.

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BTW, Charleston is I think one boat away from setting an all-time entry record for the second straight year, and the fourth time in five years. There is obviously a winning formula in Chucktown, and we congratulate them. 176 is the magic number, some 50 more than Key West and 60 or 70 more than the St. Pete NOOD. Glad to see my home town is doing it right.

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Thanks for keeping tabs - check out the newest press release. We're stoked for the event - we hope you are. Check out the photo contest on our CRW facebook page.

CHARLESTON RACE WEEK ATTENDANCE RECORD SHATTERED AGAIN

Over 180 Boats to Attend the South's Biggest Sailing Event

CHARLESTON, SC (March 25, 2010) - 2010 Charleston Race Week is just around the corner, and the South Carolina Maritime Foundation (SCMF) and Charleston Ocean Racing Association (CORA) are proud to announce that they've already broken another attendance record with two weeks still to go before the first race. "We're once again very grateful to see so much support for Race Week and for our city," said SCMF CEO Will Haynie. "Registration is almost over and soon we get to the fun part - seeing 1,500 sailors enjoying our beautiful waterways and Charleston's legendary hospitality."

With 180 entries on the scratch sheet as of Wednesday, the South's largest regatta is again raising the bar, with a second consecutive year and the fourth out of five with a record entry list. Haynie attributes the event's success in the face of tough economic times to various factors. "Charleston Race Week has been the beneficiary of people needing to make hard choices with their time and money these days," Haynie said. "This event has proved to be a great value, with the three things that sailors crave most: Good weather, reliable wind, and great parties."

After crewing for two years on other Melges 24s, making the decision to bring their own boat was easy this year for August and Zac Hernandez, the owners of High Voltage. "A lot of the good Melges 24 sailors from the US are part of [CRW]. After getting to know the other 24 guys and finding out what races they signed up for, making the decision for Charleston this year was pretty easy," stated Zac.

Race Locally, Race Globally

Race Week's origin as a regional PHRF regatta hasn't been lost with the event's growth, and alongside Southeast-based PHRF and one-design teams is a large contingent of teams from around the country and around the globe The well-traveled Southern Cross 52 Vincitore never seems to stop in one place for long, with a crew that includes many New Zealanders and a home port in Switzerland Germany's Christof Wieland will be racing in the Melges 24 class for the second straight year, and Canada is well represented with Viper 640 String Theory and longtime CRW competitor Slapshot in the Tripp 26. This is the first start anywhere in more than two years for the Tripp 26 class. International boats are no new factor to CRW, however; last year's event showed an equally strong international presence with boats from France, Ireland, Germany, and the UK.

Closer to home, boats from 19 states will face off in Charleston. The Texans are hoofing it across the South Coast with nine J/Boats and Vipers, and the Midwest, Northeast, and West Coast are all well represented in the hot 'sportboat' fleets, which make up more than half of all entries.

Deadline Relief

If you missed the end of the standard registration period on Monday, don't panic! Registration has been extended until the end of the day this Friday, so get your entry in now! Registration is incomplete until race fees are paid per the Notice of Race. Entries submitted after Friday, March 26th will be charged a $100 late entry fee. After registering, be sure to pick up your Shoreside Event Passes for access to all the nightly festivities, and note that Event Passes are available for purchase to the general public at the same low price as to the racers, so invite your friends! A $60 ticket covers four days of live entertainment, food, drinks and more. Purchase your ticket online before Wednesday, March 31st or at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina on Thursday, April 8th. View the schedule of events here.

Storage Solutions

There is still space for trailered boats under 30 feet at Azalea Moving and Storage. Please note that space limitations have required organizers to relocate the storage location for trailers after boats have been launched. The picturesque and safe new spot is just blocks from the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, less than two miles from Remley's Point free launch ramps and just across the bridge from downtown Charleston. For comprehensive information on storage, launching and hauling, be sure to click here.

Charleston Race Week is an annual premier regatta for inshore and offshore racing sailboats 20' - 70' in length organized by the South Carolina Maritime Foundation and Charleston Ocean Racing Association. The 15th edition of this event, the fastest growing regatta on the east coast, will be held April 8 - 11, 2010, headquartered at the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Visit www.CharlestonRaceWeek.com for more information.

The South Carolina Maritime Foundation owns and operates the Spirit of South Carolina tall ship. The Foundation's mission is to offer effective, unique educational opportunities for students, focusing on the history, math, science and literature of our water resources and encouraging personal responsibility, contribution to the community and stewardship of the environment. Since its first season of programming in 2007, over 5,000 students have been served. With the support of local partnerships, the South Carolina Maritime Foundation is able to generate funds to keep these exceptional programs in place.

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Solid. Chucktown is packed with the bridge run this weekend, so be prepared. Bars should be fun though. There are a ton of boats in town already. The yards are slammed, and the storage lot is getting full.

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I am not sailing on this boat, but why does CORA not want a Catalina 27 to race in the HDC and insists on putting them in PHRF F with Extra Drink tickets to entice them. After looking at the CORA spreadsheet, the boats in the HDC always race together and outsiders are not welcome. The Catalina was told that the HDC was too competitive for them, however

they have won the Catalina 27 North Americans. What is going on?????

PHRF F is the HDC division.

You can admit you are infact sailing on this boat:

A. knowledge of a Catalina 27 NA being held, and the results of said regatta

B. "I am not sailing on this boat"

Charleston would be a scary place for your Atomic 4 to die! stay away from the shipping channel.

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I am not sailing on this boat, but why does CORA not want a Catalina 27 to race in the HDC and insists on putting them in PHRF F with Extra Drink tickets to entice them. After looking at the CORA spreadsheet, the boats in the HDC always race together and outsiders are not welcome. The Catalina was told that the HDC was too competitive for them, however

they have won the Catalina 27 North Americans. What is going on?????

Sorry they want him in PHRF E!

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I am not sailing on this boat, but why does CORA not want a Catalina 27 to race in the HDC and insists on putting them in PHRF F with Extra Drink tickets to entice them. After looking at the CORA spreadsheet, the boats in the HDC always race together and outsiders are not welcome. The Catalina was told that the HDC was too competitive for them, however

they have won the Catalina 27 North Americans. What is going on?????

I know that boat, and tell them to bring fried chicken. It always makes them fast. No, seriously. I've seen them excel in a lot of PHRF races I didn't expect to see them excel in, and I think it might have something to do with fried chicken. Or the pony kegs. Just saying.

But seriously, I hope they get put in a fair fleet. I don't really know where they should be ... but fried chicken is really, really good. And I hope they're bringing Drink.

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I am not sailing on this boat, but why does CORA not want a Catalina 27 to race in the HDC and insists on putting them in PHRF F with Extra Drink tickets to entice them. After looking at the CORA spreadsheet, the boats in the HDC always race together and outsiders are not welcome. The Catalina was told that the HDC was too competitive for them, however

they have won the Catalina 27 North Americans. What is going on?????

We raced in HDC a few years ago, came down from the Ches., and I'd say the fleet made us feel very welcome (maybe a little TOO welcome), so I don't know where that's coming from.

Maybe they are basing it more on waterline....HDC looks like > 35 feet this year and they might be waiting awhile for a C27 to finish. Although, looking at "E" with the T10s and the Mac30, they might be waiting awhile, too. Tough call, putting a boat in anywhere that rates 30+ seconds slower than all others (except for one of the NS boats).

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I am not sailing on this boat, but why does CORA not want a Catalina 27 to race in the HDC and insists on putting them in PHRF F with Extra Drink tickets to entice them. After looking at the CORA spreadsheet, the boats in the HDC always race together and outsiders are not welcome. The Catalina was told that the HDC was too competitive for them, however

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What happened to the notion of racing 4 days this year at CRW. I seem to recall the website saying April 7-11 at one point. When did this change?

Surveys came back overwhelmingly in favor of a three-day event, I think something like 78% were opposed to making it four, though Class representatives were told that organizers would work to accommodate any class that wanted to sail four days...and there were no takers. It surprised me quite a bit, but basically everyone said that a four-day event requires almost the full week off, so that you might as well make it a five day event or just keep it at three. If CRW limits out over the next couple of years - 200 boats would probably be about all that the harbor can handle - then organizers have discussed making a change. But not without doing the surveys.

Looks like the two M32s will be slipping into either PHRF A or Sporty class, I would think sporty would be the better spot for them.

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I am not sailing on this boat, but why does CORA not want a Catalina 27 to race in the HDC and insists on putting them in PHRF F with Extra Drink tickets to entice them. After looking at the CORA spreadsheet, the boats in the HDC always race together and outsiders are not welcome. The Catalina was told that the HDC was too competitive for them, however

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What happened to the notion of racing 4 days this year at CRW. I seem to recall the website saying April 7-11 at one point. When did this change?

"Surveys came back overwhelmingly in favor of a three-day event, I think something like 78% were opposed to making it four, though Class representatives were told that organizers would work to accommodate any class that wanted to sail four days...and there were no takers. It surprised me quite a bit, but basically everyone said that a four-day event requires almost the full week off, so that you might as well make it a five day event or just keep it at three."

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What happened to the notion of racing 4 days this year at CRW. I seem to recall the website saying April 7-11 at one point. When did this change?

Surveys came back overwhelmingly in favor of a three-day event, I think something like 78% were opposed to making it four, though Class representatives were told that organizers would work to accommodate any class that wanted to sail four days...and there were no takers. It surprised me quite a bit, but basically everyone said that a four-day event requires almost the full week off, so that you might as well make it a five day event or just keep it at three. If CRW limits out over the next couple of years - 200 boats would probably be about all that the harbor can handle - then organizers have discussed making a change. But not without doing the surveys.

Looks like the two M32s will be slipping into either PHRF A or Sporty class, I would think sporty would be the better spot for them.

The best option would probably be the IRC group but not likely they have IRC certs - and I am also aware that M32's don't exactly get a gift rating in IRC. It has worked ok though in LIS where they have been able to place in some conditions under IRC. The sporty PHRF section is probably the only option although the rating spread will get pretty big. But - it is a handicap race afterall so no biggie.

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This will be my first visit to Charleston for me. I'm actually evaluating it as a place to retire in 5-6 years, so checking it out from the water and when it is full up for race week is one view.

I'll be on the 3rd circle signal boat helping out, blogging, etc. With Wayne Bretsch as PRO, expect nothing less than some excellent course management. The work load for me will be lighter than for KWRW, so I expect a different level of fun. Maybe I'll do a little post race interviewing to have something to write about in the morning.

NO RAIN is predicted. Do I trust it - nah, so light foulies will be in my bag. I would prefer 70's instead of the 60's predicted, but it will still be good.

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It probably makes the most sense for them to race sporties, will be good to have a low-pressure regatta for them and we're stoked to see all of the hot rods.

looks like on the scratch sheet they put them with the J105's? Seems kind of weird to put them in a one design fleet and arent J105's quite a bit slower? I'm sure they know what their doing, just surprised me...

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This will be my first visit to Charleston for me. I'm actually evaluating it as a place to retire in 5-6 years, so checking it out from the water and when it is full up for race week is one view.

I'll be on the 3rd circle signal boat helping out, blogging, etc. With Wayne Bretsch as PRO, expect nothing less than some excellent course management. The work load for me will be lighter than for KWRW, so I expect a different level of fun. Maybe I'll do a little post race interviewing to have something to write about in the morning.

NO RAIN is predicted. Do I trust it - nah, so light foulies will be in my bag. I would prefer 70's instead of the 60's predicted, but it will still be good.

See you there. or should it be See y'all there!

Joy!! Great to hear that you will be in town, we will show you around if you like. We will be on all courses this year and would love to have you adding your thoughts to the mix. I can even have the event chairman authorize you to post on SA if that makes life easier. I like this event...

And BTW it has been 75-80 for like 12 days now, I wouldn't trust any forecast in the 60s.

They say in Charleston, SC the rivers Ashley and Cooper come together to form the Atlantic Ocean. And it’s true. I’ve seen it for myself. But more importantly, they come together to create one of the best sailboat regatta venues in the country. Period! End of story! Well, not really, there is more…Boats from all over are making final preparations to ascend on one of the south’s most gracious and hospitable locations for some of the best racing in the country. Forget about that little old Key West thingy. There’s a new BIG BOY REGATTA on the east coast and it’s Charleston Race Week (CRW). And to top things off, I couldn’t be more excited. Strictly Sailing will be on location to cover the people, the boats, the party, and the RUM!... not necessarily in that order.

At last count, the CRW scratch sheet reflected 191 registered boats for the event. That’s incredible! Or is it? Charleston is a fabulous place. The people, the atmosphere, the weather, and the local victuals only accentuate the great sailing there. So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that no less than 30 Melges 24s and Viper 640s have decided to play there. If you couple that with the 21 J-80s, 14 Melges 20s, and all the other boats in attendance, you got one good old fashion South Carolina cock fight on your hands. And it all happens this weekend.

Of course, sailing Charleston doesn’t come without some challenges. Yes, the wind does blow, but the current roars as well. For the boats racing in the harbor, it will be the skippers that best study the lay of the water and coordinate the two elements who come out on top. Local knowledge will definitely have its advantage.

So, good luck to everybody and keep your eye out for the Strictly Sailing camera. You just might find yourself in a Happy Snap! See ya there.